14 November 1941: Malta Supply Convoy Sunk

Two merchant vessels travelling in unescorted convoy through the western Mediterranean have been destroyed by enemy action. The ships were loaded with military stores and ammunition for Malta. In the early hours of this morning, Empire Pelican was hit by Italian torpedoes and sank between Galita Island and Tunisia. Empire Defender is believed to have met the same fate.

German U-boats operating in W Med

The convoy attempt was the latest in a series of clandestine missions to run supply ships along the North African coast disguised as local tramp vessels. However, with German U boats also known to be operating in the Western Mediterranean, the operation of future such convoys from the British mainland is now in doubt.

GOVERNOR CONFIRMS ORDER FOR CIVILIAN COMMODITIES

Already concerned at food shortages and their effect on the civilian population, Lt Gen Dobbie is anxious to ensure that future supplies of these and other essentials are secure.

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: The War Office

“Presume demands submitted by civil government to Crown Agents for engineer stores, foodstuffs and medical supplies required for civil population have not been cancelled under terms of 12/1. This would upset our whole system of supply. Please pass copy to Colonial Office.”

AIR RAIDS DAWN 14 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 15 NOVEMBER 1941

No air raids.

Military casualties Sergeant WO/AG William Eaton, Royal Air Force, 114 Squadron